Loaded question, lots of ifs and buts.
Having been there, done that, I'll never ship a bike again (unless it's going to be an RTW ride, and even then..).
For anything less than 5-6 weeks, shipping and all its associated issues and cost just aren't worth the hassle.
Beyond that, purchasing locally makes more sense than shipping your own.
Of course, lots of folks just insist on their own for the sentimental and brag factors, very few would be able to argue a common-sense case pro-shipping.
The only case in which it makes sense, would be a special bike, special occasion, modified bike to suit a disabled person or the like.
OTOH, things also depend on type of riding intended and equipment needed for that, which might not be available for hire locally.
i.e. rough, single track stuff on 250 MXers etc.
